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Important Questions: CBSE Class 8 Science Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals

Reproduction in Animals is a foundational chapter in CBSE Class 8 Science, bridging biology concepts from primary classes to advanced reproduction studies in Classes 10 and 12. This chapter explains both sexual and asexual reproduction, fertilisation mechanisms, embryonic development, and metamorphosis. Students must master terminology like zygote, gametes, oviparous, viviparous, and understand processes such as binary fission, budding, and fragmentation to score well in term exams.

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Key takeaways

  • Chapter 6 typically carries 6-8 marks in CBSE Class 8 Science term exams, with at least one 3-mark or 5-mark question guaranteed.
  • Sexual reproduction, internal vs external fertilisation, and metamorphosis are high-weightage topics appearing in every board paper.
  • Diagrams of binary fission, budding, and development stages fetch 2-3 additional marks when drawn accurately and labelled.
  • CBSE examiners frequently ask differentiation questions: sexual vs asexual, internal vs external fertilisation, viviparous vs oviparous.
  • Case-based questions now include real-life scenarios on embryo development, IVF, or cloning — worth 4-5 marks each.
  • Common mistakes include confusing zygote with embryo, mixing up metamorphosis stages, and incomplete labelling in diagrams.
  • Practising 15-18 questions across all mark categories ensures complete coverage of NCERT Class 8 Science Chapter 6 syllabus.

Chapter Overview and Marks Weightage in CBSE Exams

CBSE Class 8 Science Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals holds 6-8 marks weightage in annual and term examinations. The 2024-25 exam pattern shows a mix of objective and subjective questions. Typically, you will encounter 2-3 MCQs or fill-in-the-blanks (1 mark each), one or two 2-mark questions asking for definitions or differences, at least one 3-mark question on processes like fertilisation or metamorphosis with diagrams, and one 5-mark case-based or application question on embryo development or cloning. NCERT Class 8 Science covers sexual and asexual reproduction modes, internal and external fertilisation, viviparous and oviparous animals, development of embryo, and complete and incomplete metamorphosis. Questions are balanced across remembering, understanding, and application levels, with diagrams carrying significant marks. Schools in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru report that 40% of students lose marks on diagram labelling and terminology precision.
  • MCQs and VSA: 2-3 questions × 1 mark = 2-3 marks
  • Short answer (SA-I): 1-2 questions × 2 marks = 2-4 marks
  • Short answer (SA-II): 1 question × 3 marks = 3 marks
  • Long answer / Case-based: 1 question × 4-5 marks = 4-5 marks
  • Diagram-based questions appear in 2-mark, 3-mark, and 5-mark categories

One-Mark Questions: MCQs and Very Short Answer (VSA)

One-mark questions test recall of facts, definitions, and direct NCERT statements. CBSE Class 8 Science papers typically include 2-3 such questions from Chapter 6. These may be multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blanks, or one-word answers. Students should revise NCERT glossary terms and be precise. Incorrect spelling of scientific terms like 'metamorphosis' or 'oviparous' can cost marks even if the concept is understood. Below are six representative one-mark questions with answers drawn from the NCERT Class 8 Science textbook and recent board papers. Practise these to build speed and accuracy for the objective section of your term exam, which is increasingly computer-marked in CBSE schools using OMR sheets or online platforms.
  • Q1. The type of fertilisation in hens is: (a) External (b) Internal (c) Both (d) None. Answer: (b) Internal
  • Q2. Animals that lay eggs are called _______. Answer: Oviparous
  • Q3. The fusion of male and female gametes is called _______. Answer: Fertilisation
  • Q4. In Hydra, a new individual develops as an outgrowth called _______. Answer: Bud
  • Q5. The transformation of larva into adult through drastic changes is called _______. Answer: Metamorphosis
  • Q6. Which of the following reproduces by binary fission? (a) Hydra (b) Amoeba (c) Frog (d) Fish. Answer: (b) Amoeba

Two-Mark Questions with Model Answers

Two-mark questions in CBSE Class 8 Science usually ask for definitions, differences, or short explanations. Examiners look for precise terminology and two distinct points. A single-sentence answer rarely fetches full marks; you must write 2-3 sentences covering the concept and an example or reason. In Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals, common 2-mark themes include modes of reproduction, types of fertilisation, and embryo development. Always underline key terms like 'zygote', 'embryo', 'gametes' to signal clarity. If the question says 'Differentiate', present your answer in a two-column table or numbered points for maximum marks. Below are four high-probability 2-mark questions with concise model answers based on NCERT Class 8 Science content and marking schemes from recent CBSE term exams.
  • Q7. Differentiate between sexual and asexual reproduction. Answer: Sexual reproduction involves fusion of male and female gametes, producing offspring with genetic variation (e.g. humans, birds). Asexual reproduction involves a single parent, no gamete fusion, and offspring are genetically identical (e.g. Amoeba, Hydra).
  • Q8. What is internal fertilisation? Give one example. Answer: Internal fertilisation occurs when the fusion of gametes happens inside the female body. Example: Humans, hens, cows. The female provides a protected environment for the developing embryo.
  • Q9. Define metamorphosis with an example. Answer: Metamorphosis is the biological process where an animal undergoes drastic physical changes from larva to adult. Example: A tadpole (larva) transforms into a frog (adult), losing its tail and developing limbs.
  • Q10. Why do fish and frogs lay hundreds of eggs? Answer: Fish and frogs use external fertilisation in water, where many eggs and sperms are exposed to predators and environmental factors. Laying hundreds of eggs increases the chance that at least some will survive to adulthood.

Three-Mark Questions with Model Answers

Three-mark questions demand explanations, process descriptions, or labelled diagrams. CBSE Class 8 Science examiners allocate 1 mark for the diagram, 1 mark for labels, and 1 mark for explanation or correctness. Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals lends itself to process-based questions on fertilisation, development of embryo, binary fission, budding, and metamorphosis stages. Write in short paragraphs (3-4 sentences) and include scientific terms. If a diagram is asked, draw neatly in pencil, label with a ruler-drawn arrow, and write labels in capital letters. Below are three representative 3-mark questions with structured model answers. These mirror the pattern seen in CBSE sample papers and school pre-board exams across India, from Chennai to Chandigarh.
  • Q11. Describe the process of fertilisation in human beings. Answer: (i) During sexual reproduction, the male gamete (sperm) is released into the female reproductive system. (ii) The sperm travels through the oviduct where it fuses with the female gamete (ovum/egg) to form a zygote. (iii) The zygote undergoes repeated cell divisions to form an embryo, which implants in the uterus and develops into a foetus. (3 marks: 1 for sperm release, 1 for fusion/zygote, 1 for embryo development)
  • Q12. Draw a labelled diagram showing budding in Hydra. Answer: [Diagram: Draw Hydra body with a small bud protruding from the side. Label: Parent Hydra, Bud, Tentacles.] Budding is an asexual reproduction method where a new individual develops as an outgrowth from the parent body. The bud eventually detaches and becomes an independent organism. (3 marks: 1 for diagram, 1 for labels, 1 for explanation)
  • Q13. Explain the life cycle of a frog with reference to metamorphosis. Answer: (i) Frogs lay eggs in water; each egg hatches into a tadpole (larva) with gills and a tail. (ii) The tadpole gradually develops lungs and limbs while the tail shortens. (iii) Finally, it transforms into an adult frog that can live on land and water. This drastic transformation is called metamorphosis. (3 marks: 1 for egg/tadpole, 1 for changes, 1 for adult/definition)

Five-Mark Questions and Case-Based Problems

Five-mark questions are application or case-based, introduced in the 2023-24 CBSE pattern to test higher-order thinking. For Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals, expect scenarios involving embryo development, cloning, test-tube babies (IVF), or comparative reproduction in different animal groups. You must read a short paragraph, analyse data or a diagram, and answer 3-4 sub-questions. Allocate 8-10 minutes for such questions. Structure your answer with sub-headings (a), (b), (c) and write in points. Use correct biological terms from NCERT Class 8 Science and relate to the given case. Below is one detailed five-mark case-based question and one traditional long-answer question, both with model answers. Practising these will prepare you for the most challenging part of the Class 8 Science exam and build confidence for board exams in higher classes.
  • Q14. Case Study: A scientist observed that when a Planaria (flatworm) is cut into pieces, each piece grows into a complete organism. This is an example of asexual reproduction. Answer the following: (a) Name this mode of asexual reproduction. (1 mark) (b) Why is this method beneficial in a stable environment? (2 marks) (c) Give one other example of an organism that reproduces this way. (1 mark) (d) Can this method produce genetic variation? Justify. (1 mark)
  • Model Answer Q14: (a) Regeneration or Fragmentation. (b) In a stable environment, producing genetically identical offspring is advantageous because the parent is already well-adapted. There is no need for genetic variation, and reproduction is faster without the need for a mate. (c) Hydra or Starfish. (d) No. Asexual reproduction produces clones with identical genetic material, so there is no genetic variation unless a mutation occurs.
  • Q15. Explain the development of an embryo in human beings from zygote to foetus. Mention the role of the placenta. (5 marks) Answer: (i) After fertilisation, the zygote is formed in the oviduct. (ii) The zygote undergoes repeated mitotic divisions to form a ball of cells called an embryo. (iii) The embryo moves down and gets embedded in the uterus wall (implantation). (iv) As the embryo grows, it differentiates into tissues and organs, becoming a foetus. (v) The placenta is a special tissue that connects the foetus to the uterine wall, providing oxygen and nutrients and removing waste products. (5 marks: 1 each for zygote formation, cell division, implantation, foetus, placenta role)

How CBSE Frames Questions from This Chapter

CBSE question-paper setters follow Bloom's taxonomy and NCERT learning outcomes when designing Class 8 Science Chapter 6 questions. Around 40% of marks test knowledge and understanding (definitions, labelling, recall), 40% test application (differentiation, process explanation, life-cycle diagrams), and 20% test analysis and evaluation (case studies, reasoning, real-life applications like IVF or cloning). Questions often begin with command words: 'Define', 'Differentiate', 'Explain', 'Draw and label', 'Why', 'Justify'. For Reproduction in Animals, examiners favour compare-and-contrast formats (sexual vs asexual, internal vs external, complete vs incomplete metamorphosis, viviparous vs oviparous) because these test depth of understanding. Diagram-based questions carry 2-3 marks and appear in every paper; common diagrams include binary fission in Amoeba, budding in Hydra, stages of frog metamorphosis, and human embryo development. Marks are deducted for unlabelled or incorrectly labelled parts, untidy sketches, and missing arrowheads. The 2025 CBSE Class 8 Science blueprint reserves at least one competency-based or case-based question, integrating Chapter 6 with real-world biology topics such as assisted reproduction, conservation of endangered species, or ethics of cloning.
  • 60% of marks come from NCERT in-text questions and exercises; always solve those first
  • Diagrams from NCERT figures 6.1 to 6.5 are directly asked or slightly modified in board papers
  • Cross-chapter integration: Expect links to Chapter 9 (Reproduction in plants) or Chapter 7 (Reaching the age of adolescence)
  • Terminology precision is critical; write 'oviparous' not 'egg-laying', 'zygote' not 'fertilised egg', 'metamorphosis' not 'transformation'
  • Recent trends: Case studies on IVF, surrogacy, cloning (Dolly the sheep), and endangered species breeding programs

Common Mistakes Students Make in Chapter 6 Questions

Every year, CBSE Class 8 Science teachers report recurring errors in Reproduction in Animals answers. The most frequent mistake is confusing zygote with embryo: a zygote is the single cell formed immediately after fertilisation, while an embryo is the multi-cellular structure that develops from the zygote. Students often write 'fertilised egg' instead of 'zygote', losing terminology marks. Another common error is muddling metamorphosis stages, especially for frogs; many write 'egg → frog → tadpole' instead of the correct sequence 'egg → tadpole → adult frog'. In diagram questions, students draw budding in Hydra but forget to label the bud or parent body, losing 1 mark. During differentiation questions (sexual vs asexual, internal vs external), students write only one point or fail to give examples, which costs at least 1 mark. In case-based questions, students do not read the passage carefully and answer from memory instead of extracting information from the given text. Finally, many Class 8 students skip writing units or scientific names; for instance, writing 'Hydra' instead of 'Hydra' (italicised or underlined) in formal answers. Avoiding these pitfalls can immediately boost scores by 3-4 marks per paper.
  • Zygote vs embryo confusion: Zygote = single cell post-fertilisation; embryo = multi-cellular ball of cells
  • Incorrect metamorphosis sequence: Remember egg → larva (tadpole) → adult, not egg → adult → larva
  • Incomplete labelling: Always label all parts asked; even if the diagram is perfect, missing labels = lost marks
  • Generic answers in differentiation questions: Always provide two clear points + one example for each type
  • Not underlining scientific names: Amoeba, Hydra, Plasmodium should be underlined or italicised in written answers
  • Ignoring command words: 'Explain' needs reasoning, 'List' needs points, 'Draw' needs a diagram — read carefully

Additional Practice Questions (Mixed Marks)

To ensure comprehensive preparation for CBSE Class 8 Science Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals, students should solve a variety of question types. The following mixed set includes one-mark, two-mark, and application-based questions not covered in earlier sections. These questions are modelled on CBSE sample papers, NCERT exemplar problems, and recent school term exams from across India. Practise writing answers in a notebook within a time limit: 1 minute for 1-mark, 2-3 minutes for 2-mark, and 5 minutes for 3-mark questions. Self-assess using the model answers provided. Regular timed practice builds exam temperament and helps identify weak areas. Students using CBSETUTOR.ai can upload photos of these handwritten answers for instant AI-powered feedback and corrections, a feature that has helped thousands of Class 8 learners improve answer quality and score higher in school exams.
  • Q16. (1 mark) Name the organism that reproduces by multiple fission. Answer: Plasmodium (malarial parasite)
  • Q17. (2 marks) What is the difference between complete and incomplete metamorphosis? Answer: In complete metamorphosis, the larva is very different from the adult and passes through a pupa stage (e.g. butterfly: egg → caterpillar → pupa → adult). In incomplete metamorphosis, the young (nymph) resembles the adult and there is no pupa stage (e.g. cockroach, grasshopper).
  • Q18. (2 marks) Why is the offspring of asexual reproduction called a clone? Answer: In asexual reproduction, a single parent produces offspring without gamete fusion. The offspring receives an exact copy of the parent's DNA, making it genetically identical — hence called a clone.
  • Q19. (3 marks) Explain how test-tube baby technique helps childless couples. Answer: In vitro fertilisation (IVF) or test-tube baby technique involves collecting fresh eggs from the mother and sperms from the father. Fertilisation occurs in a laboratory dish (in vitro). The formed embryo is then implanted into the mother's uterus, where it develops into a baby. This technique helps couples who have fertilisation problems.
  • Q20. (1 mark) Which part of the female reproductive system does the embryo get implanted? Answer: Uterus

Diagram-Based Questions and Labelling Tips

Diagrams carry significant weightage in CBSE Class 8 Science exams, especially in Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals. Students must practise drawing and labelling at least five standard diagrams: binary fission in Amoeba, budding in Hydra, fragmentation in Planaria, stages of metamorphosis in frog and butterfly, and development of embryo in humans. Always use a sharp HB pencil for diagrams and a black/blue pen for labels and arrows. Draw diagrams to occupy about one-third of the answer space — neither too small nor oversized. Labels should be written in capital letters or clear handwriting, with arrows pointing exactly to the part, not floating in space. Never cross labels; if space is tight, use leader lines. If the question says 'neat labelled diagram', marks are split equally between neatness and correctness of labels. Common labelling errors include missing the nucleus in Amoeba, forgetting to label the bud in Hydra, or writing 'body' instead of specific parts like 'parent body' or 'daughter cell'. Practise these diagrams weekly to build muscle memory and speed.
  • Binary fission in Amoeba: Show one Amoeba dividing into two; label nucleus, cytoplasm, parent cell, daughter cells
  • Budding in Hydra: Show parent Hydra with a bud; label parent body, bud, tentacles
  • Frog life cycle: Draw egg → tadpole → tadpole with legs → adult frog; label each stage and mention 'metamorphosis'
  • Human embryo development: Draw fertilisation → zygote → embryo → foetus; label oviduct, uterus, placenta if asked
  • Use pencil for diagrams, pen for labels; underline labels; draw in the center of the answer space

How CBSETUTOR.ai Helps Master Chapter 6 Questions

Preparing for CBSE Class 8 Science Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals requires clarity of concepts, regular practice, and instant feedback on answers. CBSETUTOR.ai offers a 24×7 AI tutor that allows students to upload photos of handwritten answers or diagrams and receive step-by-step corrections, explanations, and marking as per CBSE scheme. For example, if a student writes a 3-mark answer on metamorphosis but misses labelling the larval stage, the AI tutor highlights the missing part, suggests the correct label, and awards 2.5/3 marks with feedback. Parents love the flat ₹999/month pricing for Classes 6-12, which eliminates the need for expensive coaching centres. Students in smaller cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, and Indore — where Biology coaching for Class 8 is scarce — find CBSETUTOR.ai especially valuable. The platform covers all NCERT chapters, provides chapter-wise question banks, and offers a 3-day free trial so students can explore features before committing. For Reproduction in Animals, students can practise the 18 questions provided on this page, upload answers, and refine them until they achieve full marks, building both knowledge and confidence for the term exam.
  • Upload photo of any answer or diagram; get instant AI feedback aligned with CBSE marking scheme
  • Access 200+ important questions for Class 8 Science across all chapters, including Chapter 6
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Frequently asked questions

How many marks does Chapter 6 Reproduction in Animals carry in CBSE Class 8 Science exams?+
Chapter 6 typically carries 6-8 marks in CBSE Class 8 Science term exams. Expect 2-3 one-mark MCQs, one or two 2-mark short-answer questions, one 3-mark question with a diagram, and one 4-5 mark case-based or long-answer question covering fertilisation, metamorphosis, or embryo development.
What are the most important topics in Class 8 Science Chapter 6 for board exams?+
The most important topics are sexual and asexual reproduction, internal vs external fertilisation, viviparous vs oviparous animals, development of embryo from zygote to foetus, and metamorphosis in frogs and butterflies. Diagrams of binary fission in Amoeba and budding in Hydra are frequently asked.
How should I prepare diagrams for Reproduction in Animals chapter?+
Practise drawing five key diagrams: binary fission in Amoeba, budding in Hydra, fragmentation in Planaria, frog metamorphosis stages, and human embryo development. Use pencil for diagrams, label in pen with arrows, and revise NCERT figures 6.1 to 6.5. Allocate 2 minutes per diagram during exams.
What is the difference between zygote and embryo?+
A zygote is the single cell formed immediately after the fusion of male and female gametes (fertilisation). An embryo is the multicellular structure that develops from the zygote through repeated cell divisions. This is a common 2-mark differentiation question in CBSE Class 8 Science exams.
Why do fish and frogs lay so many eggs?+
Fish and frogs use external fertilisation in water, where eggs and sperms are exposed to predators, water currents, and environmental hazards. To ensure that at least some offspring survive to adulthood, they lay hundreds or thousands of eggs, compensating for high mortality rates.
What is metamorphosis and how is it different in frogs and butterflies?+
Metamorphosis is the biological process where an animal undergoes drastic physical transformation from larva to adult. Frogs show incomplete metamorphosis (egg → tadpole → frog) with gradual changes. Butterflies show complete metamorphosis (egg → caterpillar → pupa → adult butterfly) with a distinct pupal resting stage.
How is internal fertilisation advantageous for land animals?+
Internal fertilisation protects gametes and the developing embryo from desiccation (drying out) on land, increases survival rates by providing a controlled environment, and reduces the number of eggs needed. Examples include humans, birds, and reptiles. This is a common 3-mark question in CBSE exams.
What are common mistakes students make in Chapter 6 questions?+
Common mistakes include confusing zygote with embryo, incorrect metamorphosis sequences, incomplete diagram labelling, writing vague answers without examples, not underlining scientific names like Amoeba or Hydra, and failing to read case-based questions carefully before answering.
Can I score full marks in diagram-based questions without artistic skills?+
Yes. CBSE marking schemes award marks for correctness and labels, not artistic beauty. Draw simple, clear diagrams with a pencil, label all parts accurately with arrows, and ensure neatness. Practising NCERT diagrams five times each will build the required skill and speed.
How does CBSETUTOR.ai help in preparing for Chapter 6 important questions?+
CBSETUTOR.ai provides a 24×7 AI tutor where students upload photos of handwritten answers or diagrams and receive instant feedback, corrections, and marks as per CBSE scheme. It offers 200+ chapter-wise questions, step-by-step solutions, and doubt clearing at a flat ₹999/month for all classes. A 3-day free trial is available.

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